The Lamborghini Miura is widely regarded as the first true supercar, revolutionizing the automotive world with its groundbreaking mid-engine layout, stunning design, and exceptional performance. Introduced in 1966, the Miura set new standards for speed, engineering, and style, firmly establishing Lamborghini as a leader in high-performance automotive innovation.
Origins and Development
The Miura was born from the ambition of Lamborghini’s young engineers, Gian Paolo Dallara, Paolo Stanzani, and Bob Wallace, who sought to push the boundaries of automotive design. At the time, Ferruccio Lamborghini, the company’s founder, focused on grand touring cars rather than outright performance machines. However, the engineers developed a prototype in secret, presenting it to Lamborghini as the P400 (Posteriore 400) chassis. Inspired by racing technology, the car featured a transverse mid-engine layout—an innovation that drastically improved balance and handling.
Design and Styling
Styled by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, the Miura’s design remains one of the most iconic in automotive history. Its low-slung profile, sweeping curves, and aggressive stance made it an instant classic. The signature “eyelashes” around the headlights and the sleek, aerodynamic body contributed to its exotic appeal. With a wide, low front end and muscular rear haunches, the Miura looked like nothing else on the road in the 1960s.
Engineering and Performance
The heart of the Miura was its 3.9-liter V12 engine, derived from Lamborghini’s earlier models but repositioned transversely behind the driver. This layout not only improved weight distribution but also contributed to the Miura’s agility and cornering ability. In its original P400 version, the V12 produced 350 horsepower, enabling a top speed of around 280 km/h (174 mph). Later versions, including the Miura S and Miura SV, received power upgrades, with the SV reaching 385 horsepower and a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph). The Miura’s lightweight chassis and innovative suspension setup provided remarkable handling, making it one of the fastest cars of its time.
Impact on the Supercar Industry
Before the Miura, high-performance cars typically featured front-engine layouts, emphasizing stability over agility. Lamborghini’s decision to position the engine behind the driver redefined sports car engineering, influencing future supercars such as the Ferrari 512 BB, Porsche 911 Turbo, and even modern hypercars. The Miura’s combination of extreme speed, radical styling, and exclusivity laid the foundation for what defines a supercar today.
Variants and Special Editions
The Miura evolved through several versions, each improving on its predecessor:
- P400 (1966-1969): The original production model, featuring a 350-horsepower V12 and a lightweight steel monocoque chassis.
- Miura S (1968-1971): Introduced a more powerful 370-horsepower engine, improved aerodynamics, and upgraded interior features.
- Miura SV (1971-1973): The most advanced version, producing 385 horsepower, with a wider rear track and revised suspension for better handling.
- Miura SVJ: A special edition inspired by the Miura Jota, featuring aggressive aerodynamic modifications and performance enhancements. Only a few SVJs were factory-built, making them extremely rare and valuable today.
- Miura Roadster: A one-off convertible prototype that showcased the car’s stunning design without a roof, although it never went into production.
Influence on Lamborghini’s Future Models
The Miura established Lamborghini as a pioneer in the supercar world, setting the stage for future models such as the Countach, Diablo, and Aventador. The Miura’s mid-engine layout became a defining characteristic of Lamborghini’s flagship cars. Even modern Lamborghinis, including the Aventador and Huracán, draw inspiration from the Miura’s design and performance philosophy.
Legacy and Collector Value
The Lamborghini Miura remains one of the most sought-after classic supercars, with prices for well-preserved examples reaching millions of dollars at auctions. Its limited production run, legendary status, and influence on automotive history make it a prized collector’s item. Many Miuras are displayed in museums, private collections, and prestigious car shows, showcasing their timeless appeal.
The Lamborghini Miura was more than just a fast car—it was a revolution in automotive engineering and design. By introducing the mid-engine layout to road-going supercars, Lamborghini set a precedent that still defines high-performance vehicles today. With its breathtaking looks, exhilarating performance, and historical significance, the Miura remains a symbol of Lamborghini’s bold vision and innovation, solidifying its place as the first true supercar.
